Philip Walsh - Symptoms of vision loss

Vision problems may be affecting your life without you even realising it. The tricky thing about bad eyesight is that tends to come on so gradually that you don’t even notice. The signs may be small. But they’ll be there. You might find your eyes are sore more often than not. Maybe you’re squinting more or have regular headaches. These are all signs of eyestrain caused by failing vision.

The worst part of vision loss is the way it affects every facet of your life. It could be that you can’t read the prices in the shops. Maybe curling up with a good book isn’t worth the stress it causes to your eyes. Or it could get even worse - affecting your driving and putting you in danger. Don’t let your eyes get in the way of living.

So here are some signs that glasses may be in your future.

Blurred Vision

If you’re having trouble making out details or specific colours, it could be a warning sign of many degenerative eye health conditions. Blurred or hazy vision can be an early indicator of glaucoma or macular degeneration.

Flashes and Floaters

If you’re noticing frequent flashes of light or shadows in your peripheral vision, you may have a detached retina and it is best to head into your local optometrist for an eye exam.

Pain

Poor vision can put quite a strain on your eyes and the rest of your body. Sore and tired eyes, dry eyes and headaches can all be signs your vision is deteriorating. Pain is caused by your eyes working double time to get the job done.

Thankfully, many eye conditions can be picked up in an eye exam using Digital Retinal Photography and if detected in the early stages, can be treated to stop the condition from worsening. So if “Stop” looks like “No Standing”, or you can’t tell which team is playing, it’s time to get your eyes checked.

If you have any sudden changes to your eyes or vision, it I best to get in touch with your local optometrist. Request an eye examination online at www.specsavers.co.nz.

About Philip

Philip is an experienced optometrist with a Bachelor of Optometry from Auckland University. He’s worked in the UK, Zimbabwe and is now the Optometrist Director at the Specsavers New Lynn store in Auckland, one of 52 Specsavers stores across the country.

Improving access for all Kiwis to high-quality eye care and eyewear is Philip’s passion. What he loves about his role at Specsavers is providing all his patients with excellent customer service and professional eye care with the latest technology and knowledgeable well-trained staff.